Athletics Ontario (AO) is pleased to announce that Brendan Cole will be joining the AO staff as the new Manager of High Performance on Thursday, January 7, 2021.
Cole’s previous experience in high performance sport has given him the skills and abilities to take on this role. His primary responsibilities will be managing all aspects of the Athletics Ontario high performance programs including Quest for Gold and Team Ontario (OHPSI). He is also responsible for maintaining and updating the Athletics Ontario high performance strategy to ensure Ontario athletes and coaches have the best opportunities to succeed on a national and international level.
Prior to joining AO, Brendan gained valuable experience working in a variety of sport backgrounds including track and field, USA Bobsled and Skeleton, Athletics Australia, Gymnastics Australia, Netball Australia, Australian Institute of Sport, ALTIS (elite track and field training center), and World Athletics Center Australia. His experience encompasses the roles of athlete, coach, program manager and soft tissue therapist, all at the Olympic level.
Although Brendan has a diverse sport profile, he states that his passion still lies mostly in track and field. Brendan had a decorated career himself as an athlete, having earned the achievements of 2006 Commonwealth Games Finalist, 2009 World Universiade Games Gold Medalist, 2010 Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist, and 2012 Olympic semi-finalist in the 400m Hurdles and 4x400m Relay.
Cole has a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science (Exercise Science) from Australian Catholic University, and a Masters Degree in Exercise Science (Strength and Conditioning) from Edith Cowan University. Additionally, he has completed his diploma in Health Science (Remedial Massage) from Victoria University, and Professional Pilates (Rehabilitation) from Polestar Pilates, and is in the process of obtaining a Graduate Diploma of Arts in Philosophy from the University of New England.
“We are excited to welcome Brendan to the team and observe as he demonstrates his skills in the High Performance scope of Ontario Track and Field”, said Paul Osland, Athletics Ontario’s Chief Executive Officer.
